| A SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION TO HOMELESSNESS |
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To end homelessness, Common Ground does much more than build housing. We create supportive communities where individuals are connected and the human spirit is revitalized. As part of our holisitic approach to renewing the health and well-being of individuals and communities, Common Ground is committed to making sustainability an integral part of our housing.  Rooftop Garden at Christopher Residence In 2007, Common Ground launched its Green Campaign, a three-year, $4.3 million capital campaign to raise the funds needed to incorporate environmentally sustainable design, construction, operating, and maintenance practices into all of our new buildings. With support provided through the Green Campaign, Common Ground will build six new "green" residences with 812 apartments for homeless and low-income individuals. These buildings will enhance the health and sustainability of their surrounding communities, while contributing to the growing movement to reduce global warming. |
| Healthy | Cost-Effective | Our Future |
|---|---|---|
| Green buildings are healthier places to live. Green buildings promote improved health and quality of life for our tenants, many of whom suffer from chronic health and mental health conditions. For example, green materials and finishes protect indoor air quality, and rooftop gardens provide beautiful spaces for quiet reflection, social gatherings, and therapeutic activity. | Green buildings are a smart investment. By reducing operating costs, green design helps us to maintain the affordability of our housing over the long term. Through reduced water usage and energy savings alone, we project a minimum of 20% savings in utility expenses-leading to a savings of $75,000 per year at each of our green buildings. | The future of affordable housing is green. Green Design is already taking hold in the private sector. As one of the largest developers of supportive housing in the country, Common Ground's commitment to building green can help create a "tipping point" in the field-making green design a mainstream practice for affordable housing as well. |
